Date of Graduation
2002
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
Committee Chair
Mary Lou Lustig
Abstract
This thesis explores the evolution of flourmills in Frederick County, Maryland within the context of the economic and social development of western Maryland from 1748-1789. Western Maryland’s development differed greatly from that of most other areas in Maryland. A large German immigrant population, along with English and Scottish settlers, settled the valleys, of present day Frederick County, during the eighteenth century. These settlers grew wheat and created a need for mills and millers. Economically, mills created prosperity by attracting new businesses and settlers to the frontier. Politically and socially, millers influenced a region often in conflict with the tobacco interests of tidewater Maryland. The growth of flourmills in Frederick County eventually created strong economic ties to Baltimore City and ports along the Potomac River. The evolution of Frederick County’s milling community helped to insure even economic growth patterns, social harmony, and political development on Maryland’s eighteenth century frontier.
Recommended Citation
Kvach, John F., "Wheat, wealth, and western Maryland: The growth and evolution of flour milling in Frederick County, Maryland, 1748-1789." (2002). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD). 10657.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/10657